Abstract
Microorganisms (microbes) are those life forms too small to be seen by the naked eye; that is, those that require a microscope or other form of magnification in order to be observed. The term microorganism is thus a functional description rather than a taxonomic one, and the grouping includes a wide variety of organisms. The article focuses on the functional role of microbes in the biosphere and in different types of habitats - especially in terms of flow of energy and matter.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Encyclopedia of Biodiversity |
| Editors | Simon A. Levin |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Publisher | Academic Press |
| Publication date | 1 Jan 2013 |
| Pages | 299-308 |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-0-12-384720-1 |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2013 |